Porcelain veneers are one of cosmetic dentistry’s most popular and innovative treatments. Changing a wide range of aesthetic issues, these tooth-shaped, super thin shells of dental ceramic cover the front side of teeth marred by stains, mild alignment problems and fractures. Could porcelain veneers from Dr. Stephen Scotto-Levino in Selden, NY improve your smile?

Change the shape, color and size of your teeth

The best candidate for porcelain veneers, or dental laminites, has teeth free from decay and restorations such as large fillings and crowns. After a thorough dental exam, imaging and smile consultation with Dr. StephenScotto–Lavino, a cosmetic dentistry patient undergoes gentle tooth enamel preparation.

Rarely requiring any anesthetic, enamel preparation involves removal of a thin slice of tooth material (approximately ½ mm) from the front side of each tooth which will receive porcelain veneers. This resurfacing treatment allows appropriate room in the mouth for the laminates.

Dr. Scotto-Lavino takes impressions of the teeth and sends them, along with detailed instructions, to an outside dental lab. A master ceramist creates a 3-dimensional model of the patient’s mouth and individually hand-crafts the porcelain veneers. An important goal is creating teeth shape, size and color that blend in with the natural smile and are appropriate for the individual’s facial features, gender and age. Porcelain veneers are truly a work of art!

At the next dental visit in Selden, NY, Dr. Scotto-Lavino etches the tooth surfaces and bonds the porcelain veneers in place. He ensures the laminates fit well, cover the teeth completely and have natural coloration, an effect he creates with the bonding cement. He adjust them so teeth bite together properly.

Living with porcelain veneers

Dr. Scotto-Lavino and his team tell patients that living with dentallaminates is easy. They resist stains and add durability to the teeth, too.

Just brush twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush, and floss daily in between and around teeth to remove plaque. Avoid very hard foods such as taffy and peanut brittle, and don’t chew ice cubes or hard candy. Don’t bite your fingernails or pencil, and never open plastic packaging or bottle with your teeth. If a habit is bad for your natural teeth, it’s not beneficial for veneers either.

Be sure to get your semi-annual exams and cleanings with Dr. Scotto-Lavino. He will check the condition of your laminates along with other cosmetic treatments or restorations you have. With this routine care, porcelain veneers should stay strong, stain-free and sparkling for many years.

What could porcelain veneers do for you?

Talk to Dr. Scotto-Lavino and his team during a personal smile consultation. Think about what you want to achieve, and your Selden, NY dentist will get you there. Contacttheoffice staff for a convenient appointment.